So lately I've been doing a lot of work on getting in line with my PA's guidelines for diet and also getting into a good exercise routine. I've been weighing everyday hoping to see the fruits of my labors. I've been really getting frustrated the last few days because I seem to be on this cycle where the number goes down one day, then up a couple pounds and it takes another couple days to get to a 'new low.' It's small enough that it could just be normal fluctuations/scale error, but today I could feel myself getting the bad attitude that typically leads me into the "whatever, its not working anyways" type of food/activity choices. But then I realized- THIS IS HOW IT IS GOING TO BE- even after surgery. I'm not going to lose everyday, I'll hit stalls that are extended, it's just part of the process. I read on here all the time people saying just follow the plan, the weight will drop if you stick to the plan. So today, I'm finding a lot of comfort in that thought and I'm just going to get on with the day. I'm so thankful for this forum

Those ups and downs can be so disheartening!

I really tried to avoid my scales at home pre-surgery, because nothing I did seemed to make any difference (until the liquid pre-op phase) Even post-surgery, I wanted to cry when I gained a pound. It didn't matter that I KNEW it was Water weight from my period (my hands were swollen, which has always been my retaining water clue). I need to start avoiding my scales more now, because those daily fluctuations are terrible and can really play mind games on you. I try very hard to just weigh once a week (usually whatever day the challenge is, so Mondays during the Labor Day challenge), and I take my measurements at the same time. The multiple tracking really helps, as well as looking at an overview on MFP or another tracking program. The day-to-day doesn't seem so bad when you can look at a graph of the whole month and see a steady downward trend.

As hard as the temptation gets, stay away from the scale!!! Once a week, tops!!! There's nothing more frustrating than weighing in on a daily basis and seeing the fluctuations...and this happens pre- as well as post-surgery. As long as you do your part, the weight WILL come off...trust me!!! I'm not almost 6 months post-op, and I STILL have to fight the temptation of hopping on the scale frequently...and whenever I go back to the bad habit, the frustration gets me down!! Follow the doc's and the nutritionist's instructions, and you'll truly do great!!!

Wish you the best success!!!